(1266-1308) “Duns the Scot” was the son of a wealthy Scottish farmer who became a Franciscan priest, professor, philosopher, and theologian. John is considered one of the most important philosopher-theologians of the High Middle Ages, and he was a defender of the Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary. His school of thought is called “Scotism.” When Pope Pius IX solemnly defined the Immaculate Conception, he drew heavily on the work of John Duns Scotus.
Blessed John Duns Scotus was well studied in the great philosophers, like Saint Thomas Aquinas and Aristotle, but he was still an independent thinker. One of the indispensable spiritual principles of 12-Step recovery is open-mindedness, along with honesty and willingness. Being able to keep an open mind led Duns Scotus to deep insights. How has this spiritual principle benefited your recovery? When were you surprised by benefiting from another’s experience, strength, and hope?
“May the First Principle of things grant me to believe, to understand and to reveal what may please his majesty and may raise our minds to contemplate him” (Blessed John Duns Scotus).
Reflection by Brad Farmer